Healthcare Professionals’ Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Regarding Delirium in Intensive Care Units: A Cross-sectional Study

Abstract Background: Delirium is a common yet underdiagnosed condition in intensive care units (ICUs), affecting up to 83% of critically ill patients on mechanical ventilation. Understanding healthcare professionals’ competency in delirium management is essential for improving patient outcomes. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among ICU healthcare professionals from February to April 2025. A validated questionnaire assessed knowledge, attitudes, and practices. Ordinal logistic regression analysis was used to identify the predictors of knowledge and attitude levels, with statistical significance set at P < 0.05. Results: Among 120 participants (65 doctors, 55 nurses) with a 92.3% response rate, 31.7% demonstrated adequate knowledge, while 18.3% exhibited positive attitudes toward delirium management. Knowledge scores were significantly higher among doctors compared to nurses (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] =2.84, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.23–6.56, P = 0.014). Prior delirium training was the strongest predictor of both knowledge (AOR = 4.15, 95% CI: 1.68–10.24, P = 0.002) and positive attitudes (AOR = 3.47, 95% CI: 1.34–8.98, P = 0.011). Only 47.5% reported routine delirium screening, despite 89.2% recognizing its clinical importance. Conclusion: Significant gaps exist between delirium awareness and actual clinical practice among ICU professionals. Comprehensive educational programs and standardized protocols are essential to enhance delirium care quality.